The Mgbomeze II of Agalegu Ishieke Autonomous Community in Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, HRH Eze Paul Ogodo Egbe, has congratulated the 13 newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen and 171 Ward Councillors in the state, charging them to prioritise grassroots development and the welfare of the people.
Eze Egbe gave the charge in a congratulatory message issued on Saturday following the conclusion of the Ebonyi State Local Government elections.
The traditional ruler, who spoke on behalf of the Council of Chiefs, elders, women, youths and the entire people of Agalegu Ishieke Autonomous Community, said the victory of the elected officials reflected the confidence reposed in them by the people.
He urged them to justify the mandate by providing purposeful, transparent and inclusive leadership at the grassroots.
“Your victory is a clear testimony of the trust and confidence the good people of Ebonyi State have reposed in you to serve at the grassroots level,” the monarch said.
“This mandate comes at a time when our communities need servant-leaders who will bring development closer to the people.”
The traditional ruler urged the incoming council chairmen and councillors to give priority attention to peace, unity, security, education, healthcare, agriculture and rural infrastructure.
Addressing the chairmen-elect, Eze Egbe described their new positions as a call to service and urged them to lead with the fear of God.
“To the Chairmen-elect, you are now the chief servants of your people and will soon be sworn in to pilot the affairs of your various council areas.
“Lead with the fear of God, transparency and inclusiveness,” he said.
He also charged the councillors-elect to remain connected to their constituents and ensure that the needs of the grassroots were adequately represented in the various legislative councils.
“To the Councillors-elect, you are the voice of the grassroots. Once inaugurated, remain close to your people and bring their needs to the table,” the monarch added.
Eze Egbe further pledged the readiness of the traditional institution to work with the newly elected officials to promote peace and sustainable development across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state.
“The traditional institution remains committed to partnering with you to ensure peace and sustainable development in every community across the 13 Local Government Areas of our dear state,” he said.
He prayed for wisdom, strength and divine guidance for the newly elected officials as they prepare to assume office, expressing optimism that they would deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Ebonyi State.
The monarch wished the chairmen-elect and councillors-elect successful tenures and urged them to see their electoral victories as a responsibility to serve rather than an opportunity for personal advancement.
